Name: Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 2 leeks, thinly sliced; 1 lb thinly sliced green cabbage; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 3 lbs russet potatoes, scrubbed and thinly sliced ⅛ inch thick; 2 ½ cups heavy cream; ½ lb Irish cheddar cheese, shredded; Olive oil (enough to cover skillet bottom plus drizzle); Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, for topping; Minced chives, for topping; Freshly cracked black pepper, for topping; Flaky sea salt, for topping

If you're craving a dish that feels like a warm Irish hug, this Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe is exactly what you need. Layers of tender potatoes, caramelized cabbage, and sharp cheddar make for a cozy, satisfying casserole that’s perfect any time of year.

The image shows a cooked creamy dish in a black round skillet. The top layer is made of melted golden-brown cheese, with toasted parts adding a crispy texture. Beneath the cheese, thin slices of light beige potatoes are visible, mixed with caramelized brown onion pieces spread evenly across the surface. The edges of the dish show bubbling cream sauce mixed with cheese, creating a rich and smooth texture. The skillet sits on a dark wooden surface with a white marbled texture underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’ve made this scalloped potato casserole countless times and each batch never disappoints. The flavors meld beautifully and it always wins over family and friends with its rich, comforting taste.

Perfectly Layered: Thinly sliced potatoes create tender layers that soak up all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Caramelized Cabbage & Leeks: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth you wouldn’t expect in a traditional scalloped potato dish.
Easy to Make: The steps are straightforward, making it great for both weeknights and special dinners.
Great for Sharing: Makes 8 hearty servings, ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before we dive in, here’s a quick look at what you’ll need and why each ingredient plays a starring role in this Irish-inspired scalloped potato dish.

Flat lay of thinly sliced leeks, a small pile of thinly sliced green cabbage, four whole uncracked garlic cloves, a few sprigs of fresh parsley, a small bunch of minced chives, a small white ceramic bowl filled with olive oil, a small white ceramic bowl of kosher salt, a small white ceramic bowl filled with heavy cream, three whole russet potatoes with natural skin, a small mound of shredded Irish cheddar cheese, a small white ceramic bowl containing flaky sea salt, and a small white ceramic bowl with freshly cracked black pepper, all arranged symmetrically and balanced, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Leeks: Their mild onion flavor cooks down into a sweet, soft base that pairs perfectly with cabbage.
Green cabbage: Thinly sliced and caramelized for a tender texture and slightly sweet earthiness.
Garlic: Just enough to add aroma and a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
Russet potatoes: Their starchy nature makes them ideal for creamy scalloped potatoes with tender, melt-in-your-mouth slices.
Heavy cream: Creates that luscious, velvety sauce that ties every layer together.
Irish cheddar cheese: Sharp and flavorful, it adds a classic Irish twist and beautiful richness.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing and drizzling to add a lovely fruity depth.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, used thoughtfully throughout cooking and seasoning.
Fresh parsley, minced chives, freshly cracked black pepper, flaky sea salt: Fresh toppings that brighten the dish and add a final touch of texture and flavor.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe is wonderfully versatile, so don’t be shy about making it your own. Whether you want to adjust flavors, swap ingredients, or add a seasonal twist, there are plenty of ways to personalize this cozy casserole to suit your taste and occasion.

Gluten-Free Variation: I love making this dish gluten-free by simply ensuring the kosher salt and any cheese you use are certified gluten-free. This keeps all the rich flavors intact without any worries.
Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne or some finely chopped fresh jalapeños to the cabbage mixture gave my version a delightful warmth that pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes and sharp cheddar.
Seasonal Twist: For a fall-inspired version, I’ve stirred in some roasted butternut squash cubes with the cabbage, which adds a subtle sweetness and beautiful color contrast.
Cheese Swap: If you can't find Irish cheddar, don’t fret! Sharp white cheddar works wonderfully and gives a similar tangy bite that complements the cabbage and potatoes.
Make it Vegan: For a vegan take, swap the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a plant-based cheddar alternative. Sauté the cabbage and leeks in olive oil as usual for that lovely caramelized flavor.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe

A stack of creamy potato gratin is placed in the center of a white plate with a floral pattern, showing several layers of thin, golden-brown baked potato slices covered with melted cheese and small green chopped herbs sprinkled on top. The edges show browned bits of caramelized onion mixed with the creamy sauce. A copper fork rests on the right side of the plate, and a few fresh green parsley leaves are placed for garnish around the gratin. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a wooden texture partially visible underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Oven

Start by setting your oven to 375°F. This allows the oven to reach the perfect temperature so your scalloped potatoes bake evenly and develop that irresistible golden crust. Having it preheated before layering means less waiting later — and who wants that when you’re craving comfort food?

Step 2: Cook the Leeks and Cabbage to Tender Perfection

Heat a 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat and drizzle just enough olive oil to coat the bottom. Toss in the thinly sliced leeks first and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Then, add the thinly sliced green cabbage, another drizzle of olive oil, and a generous pinch of kosher salt. Stir often for 8-10 minutes as the cabbage begins to wilt and caramelize delightfully. Lower the heat to maintain a gentle sizzle, splash in 2 tablespoons of water to help soften everything, and cook for about 5 more minutes until the mixture is tender and richly caramelized.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Set Aside

Stir in the minced garlic into the cabbage and leek mixture, cooking for just another minute or so until the aroma fills your kitchen. This step unlocks that deep, savory note that ties this dish together. Once ready, transfer the cabbage mixture onto a plate and reserve your skillet — you'll be layering right in it!

Step 4: Warm the Cream

Pour the 2 ½ cups of heavy cream into a small saucepan and gently warm it over medium-low heat until it starts to gently simmer. This warming step helps the cream soak and meld with the potatoes during baking, making the layers decadently luscious and tender.

Step 5: Slice Your Potatoes Thinly and Evenly

While the cream warms, prep your potatoes. Slice off the ends, then use a mandolin to slice each russet potato about ⅛ inch thick. This thinness is key — you want the slices to be tender and pliable after baking so each bite melts in your mouth. Uniform slices also ensure even cooking and help your layers look beautifully neat.

Step 6: Build the Layers of Flavor

Begin layering directly in your cast-iron skillet. Arrange two layers of potato slices in a circular pattern, letting each slice overlap slightly, and season lightly with kosher salt. Pour one-quarter of the warm cream evenly over the potatoes, then scatter one-quarter of the caramelized cabbage mixture and one-quarter of the shredded Irish cheddar cheese on top. Repeat this process three more times, building up four layers of tender potatoes, creamy richness, flavorful cabbage, and sharp cheddar. This layering technique ensures every bite has a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Step 7: Bake Covered for Tender, Cozy Goodness

Cover the skillet tightly with foil to keep moisture in and bake in your preheated oven at 375°F for 40 minutes. This step gently cooks the potatoes through while letting the flavors marry beautifully.

Step 8: Uncover to Brown and Crisp

Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. This uncovered bake lets the top layer turn a gorgeous golden brown and develop a slightly crisp texture. You’ll know it’s done when a paring knife slides easily through the potatoes and the top looks perfectly caramelized.

Step 9: Rest, Garnish, and Serve

Let the Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar rest for about 5 minutes after baking—this helps it set for cleaner slices and makes serving easier. Just before plating, sprinkle fresh parsley, minced chives, freshly cracked black pepper, and flaky sea salt on top for a fresh, bright finish that complements all those warm, cheesy layers.

Top Tip

Mastering the perfect Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar means paying attention to the little things that make every bite melt in your mouth. These tips will help you get the texture just right and the flavors beautifully balanced.

Perfect Potato Slicing: Using a mandolin slicer to achieve uniform ⅛ inch slices ensures that every layer cooks evenly and becomes tender without turning mushy.
Caramelize the Cabbage: Take your time cooking the cabbage and leeks until they’re soft and caramelized; this adds a lovely depth and sweetness that complements the sharp Irish cheddar.
Simmer Cream Gently: Warm the heavy cream until just simmering before layering—it helps the cream soak into the potatoes and cabbage better, making the dish extra creamy.
Don’t Skip the Rest: Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking; it helps the layers set, making serving easier and the texture just perfect.

How to Serve Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe

A round black cast iron pan holds one visible layer of thinly sliced potatoes arranged closely to cover the top fully, each slice pale white with light brown edges and sprinkled with coarse salt. Underneath the potato slices, a golden layer of caramelized onions peeks through in a few places, adding depth to the dish. The pan sits on a dark wooden surface that is replaced with white marbled texture in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

The finishing touches make all the difference. For this dish, fresh chopped parsley and minced chives add a nice pop of color and a fresh, mild onion flavor. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and flaky sea salt on top enhances every bite with a subtle kick and texture contrast. If you like, a dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions can add an extra layer of interest.

Side Dishes

Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar holds its own as a hearty main course, but pairing it with light, fresh sides balances the meal nicely. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while roasted root vegetables or sautéed green beans bring additional texture and color. For a fuller spread, some crusty Irish soda bread or a simple boiled ham can complement this comforting dish beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, be sure to cool any leftovers to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar will keep well for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for prepping ahead or savoring the leftovers.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well! Once cooled, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place portions in freezer-safe containers. Frozen, it will keep for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your Irish scalloped potatoes gently to keep them creamy and tender. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time and cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out. A quick microwave reheat works too—just watch closely to avoid drying.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?

Russet potatoes are ideal because of their sturdy texture and ability to absorb the cream well. However, Yukon Gold potatoes can also work, though they may yield a slightly creamier texture.

What if I don’t have Irish cheddar cheese?

You can substitute sharp white cheddar cheese if Irish cheddar isn’t available. It offers a similar sharpness and meltability that complements the dish beautifully.

Can I prepare the cabbage mixture ahead of time?

Yes! Cooking the leeks and cabbage in advance can save you time on the day of baking. Just store the cooled mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days before assembling.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! This Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or meat products.

Final Thoughts

This Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table, whether for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. The layers of tender potatoes, caramelized cabbage, and rich cheddar make every bite worthy of savoring. I hope this recipe becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen—because nothing beats simple ingredients turned into something truly special.